1 Samuel 14:22

22 Likewise all the men of Israel who had hid themselves in the hill-country of Ephraim, when they heard that the Philistines fled, even they also followed hard after them in the battle.

1 Samuel 14:22 Meaning and Commentary

1 Samuel 14:22

Likewise all the men of Israel which had hid themselves in
Mount Ephraim
In the caves and rocks, thickets and pits there, see ( 1 Samuel 13:6 ) when

they heard that the Philistines fled;
now being delivered from their fears, and thinking themselves safe, ventured out of their lurking places:

even they also followed hard after them in the battle;
they joined the pursuers who came their way, and stuck to them, and closely pursued the flying army of the Philistines. According to Josephus ^F16, the army of Saul was now increased to 10,000.

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FOOTNOTES:

F16 Antiqu. l. 6. c. 6. sect. 3.

1 Samuel 14:22 In-Context

20 Saul and all the people who were with him were gathered together, and came to the battle: and, behold, every man's sword was against his fellow, [and there was] a very great confusion.

21 Now the Hebrews who were with the Philistines as before, and who went up with them into the camp, [from the country] round about, even they also [turned] to be with the Israelites who were with Saul and Jonathan.

22 Likewise all the men of Israel who had hid themselves in the hill-country of Ephraim, when they heard that the Philistines fled, even they also followed hard after them in the battle.

23 So Yahweh saved Israel that day: and the battle passed over by Beth-aven.

24 The men of Israel were distressed that day; for Saul had adjured the people, saying, Cursed be the man who eats any food until it be evening, and I be avenged on my enemies. So none of the people tasted food.